I cannot believe it has been eight years. Almost exactly eight years ago, I was writing in Durham for Dovetales for the first time as an incoming pastor. As I look back, I am filled with gratitude to God and to you. St. Paul’s has been my first appointment as a senior pastor and a very special one. I came prepared for any reservation on the part of the congregants in accepting me as your pastor, being an Asian woman, actually the very first non-white pastor in St. Paul’s history. But from the first day of my visit till now, you have received me and loved me so warmly that all those years passed like a week.

Since my family and I came to St. Paul’s, all the wonderful things happened to us: getting green cards (Permanent Resident Cards), Hee-Soo being employed shortly afterwards, preaching at the Annual Conference and ordination in 2008, election as a General Conference delegate in 2011, General/Jurisdictional Conferences and my graduation in 2012, Hee-Soo and my 25th wedding anniversary trip to Western Europe in April/May, 2013, Standing Committee on Central Conference Matters meeting in Budapest, Hungary in Sept./Oct. that year, Ju-Heung’s graduation from UNCA in Dec., 2013, getting U.S. citizenship in 2014, Standing Committee meeting in Maputo, Mozambique in Feb., 2015, and Ju-Sung’s graduation from UNCA in May, 2015.

Special words of appreciation are in order. Among all these wonderful things that happened to us, I cannot thank you enough for your support for my studies. Would there be any other congregation that could show such a consistent and never-wavering spirit of support for it? I was already an ABD (All But Dissertation) when I came, but I didn’t touch it for a year, because I wanted to familiarize myself to the life of St. Paul’s. Starting in the second year, I slowly began to pick it up. With your gracious permission, I stayed in Durham for a month in Jan. or Feb., 2009, commuting to Duke Divinity School to collect additional sources and materials for the dissertation writing. Also at some point in my writing process, Brooks-Howell Home graciously allowed me (without my asking!) to stay in one of the apartments to get away from businesses to concentrate on study.

At first, it was so hard to get into the writing process. But you kept nudging me and encouraging me to press on. After some struggles in reading and arranging the materials according to the plan, I finally started writing. By the time I went to the Annual Conference in June, 2011, I was in the rhythm of writing one page a day, and I was at a little past the middle point of the second chapter (of the four plus introduction and conclusion). When I was unexpectedly elected as the last of the 11 clergy delegates to the GC there, my initial sense of great privilege and gratitude for the awesome opportunity quickly turned into worries. I asked myself, “What about my writing? How can I do it and prepare myself for the GC at the same time?” And I immediately knew that it was “Now or never.” I made up my mind sitting there in Stuart Auditorium to finish writing by Dec. that year.

As soon as I returned to the church, I talked with the SPRC chair and the Ad Council about declaring an emergency situation. With all your undivided support, I went into an emergency phase, during which I preached every Sunday, attended to the basic church business and members’ special needs like surgeries and funerals, but other than that, I focused on the writing. Slowly, it picked up the speed, and eventually it became two pages a day or at times even seven pages a day (because I could insert my short papers that I had prepared for that purpose years before). And, lo and behold, I submitted the draft to my advisor on Jan. 5, 2012! And you know the rest.

The reason I reiterated it at length is that my experience around finishing my degree program has epitomized the spirit of St. Paul’s: how generous, kind, supportive and loving you all have been! St. Paul’s will stay in my heart and my family members’ forever. Now that my pastoral role at St. Paul’s is getting to a close, I would like to say one more time, “Thank you. I love you.” May you continue to be a blessing to the new pastor who is coming in July and all the pastors after him. Please receive them exactly the way you have received me, and you will bless your pastors and the church in such a beautiful way! May God continue to bless St. Paul’s, so that its story may be a bright example of revitalization, renewal, and growth of a congregation! And may God bless each of you and yours abundantly and overflowingly!

In-Yong

*********************************

PERMANENT ENDOWMENT FUND

COMMITTEE

The Permanent Endowment Fund at St. Paul’s UM Church was established for the purpose of providing members and friends the opportunity to make charitable gifts to St. Paul’s that will become a permanent endowment of financial support and a living memorial. The Endowment Fund is intended for purposes that are not a part of the church’s established programs that are funded through the annual operating budget of the church and the regular giving of its members.

Proposals for funding must first be approved by the Administrative Council before being referred to the Permanent Endowment Fund Committee for consideration.

To date, two proposals have been approved for funding. In May, 2013, a grant of $1800 was approved for updating the Web Page.

This project is still in process and the funds have not been expended. It is anticipated the Web Page will be operative this month.

The second proposal approved in February, 2014, was for $2000 to help underwrite St. Paul’s new Multi-Cultural Endeavor.

Gifts to the Endowment Fund can be made at any time. Gifts totaling $1025 were received this past month.

May and June are excellent times to honor our Mothers and Fathers on their special days by gifts to the Endowment Fund in their honor or in their memory.

Betty J. Letzig, Chair

Have you remembered St. Paul’s in your Estate Planning?

MISSIONS/OUTREACH

Human misery, death and destruction have dominated the news in recent weeks. In each situation UMCOR is at work with Annual Conference staff in the U.S. and international partners in other parts of the world:

Arkansas/Texas Tornados

UMCOR made grants to the Arkansas & Texas Conferences following the EF-2 tornados May 10,th & 12th. Four members of churches in Arkansas and Texas were killed; and parsonages were damaged.

Baltimore Civil Unrest

UMCOR made funds available to the Baltimore Annual Conference to assist churches in providing practical, spiritual and emotional assistance following the recent street protests and police confrontations.

Ukraine

Working through CasaMedic, a Canada-based UMCOR partner, a window film “Scotchshield” – has been supplied to provide special protection to hospitals and schools in Ukraine .

Nepal

Following two earthquakes, UM missionary Kathleen Parker reported porters, mule trains and helicopters are being used to get supplies to remote villages.

Syrian Refugees

UMCOR’s work with Syrian refugees is done through multiple mission partners. To date more than $1 million has been provided.

Lebanon: Working with American Near East Refugee Aid to repair, repaint and refurbish four Pre-Schools for Palestinian Syrians.

Can you name five significant events of 1869, before the organizing of the Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society of The Methodist Episcopal Church on March 23rd, 1869? (See below.)

This group (the WFMS) is the first and oldest of nine (9) woman’s home and/or foreign missionary societies that were organized in the (then) five denominations which now comprise the United Methodist Church.

United Methodist Women stands in an unbroken line back to 1869. The original Societies, and those that followed, “went out of business” through denominational mergers , General Conference actions, or planned internal changes to address new societal realities. It is a remarkable story of survival!

Getting Ready for 2019!

Planning began in 2010 with a National Advisory Committee which developed the overall design.

The Anniversary Celebration

was introduced at the 2014 Assembly in Louisville, KY

Conference representatives received orientation and information in August, 2014 at Scarritt-Bennett Center, Nashville.

Each “last Sunday” of the month the foodstuffs collected for ABCCM will be presented as part of the morning offering. In January, 7 bags were delivered to ABCCM and 12 for February. Please give generously of non-perishable foods. One item per week per person could make a significant statement.

Offering Distributions

The General Board of Church and Society has just announced grants from two 2014 Special Offerings:

Peace with Justice: $20,000 was awarded to 4 programs in Alaska, Alabama, California, and DC.

Program details were not given.

Church World Service

UMCOR partners with many groups, one of which is Church World Service (CWS). CWS receives major support through the annual CROP walks. Here are selected items from their 2014 Annual Report:

116,000 persons took part in the CROP Walk.

7778 refugees were helped to start new life in the U.S.

854 Roma women and children received access to education and livelihood programs.

44,658 Students, Teachers and School Committee members directly benefitted from increased capacity and educational support through the School Safe Zone programs.

16,012People in Rural Cambodia have gained improved access to food, water and sanitation.

UMCOR – 75th Anniversary

UMCOR was established by the 1940 General Conference of The Methodist Church. Bishop Herbert Welch described it as a ”voice of conscience among [United] Methodists to act in the relief of human suffering without distinction of race, color or creed.”

Special Offering

Gifts for “One Great Hour of Sharing” and the Lent/Easter offering will be reported next month.

Barbara E. Campbell, Chairperson

Upcoming Anniversaries

April 6 Skip and Bobbye Henry

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN

In Memoriam

Pauline Precise, a retired deaconess,

joined our Unit last September. Health concerns prevented regular attendance and in January she was moved back to Alabama, where she died March 6th. Pauline was a longtime member and leader in United Methodist Women.

On-The-Go!

In spite of medical appointments, the flu and bad weather, members have continued to participate in various events:

January, 5 members attended the Church Women United (CWU) Human Relations Day service.

March 14: 5 attended the CWU World Day of Prayer service.

March 21: Ten (10) are registered for the District Prayer Breakfast.

Call to Prayer & Self-Denial

This annual observance was the feature of the March meeting. Betty Swarthout, a retired deaconess, led the program on the theme, “A Gesture of Gratitude.” The special offering received was $1825 to date.

United Methodist Women’s/UMCOR

Partnership: Maternal Health

A new partnership, “Abundant Health for Women and Children” was announced at the 2014 Assembly in Louisville. The national office of United Methodist Women and UMCOR are working to “break the silence around discussing women’ sexual needs.” Goals: raise awareness globally around the challenges and barriers that need to be overcome; and support and strengthen programs that have proven records.

A program at Henderson Settlement in Frakes, KY is an early recipient of UMCOR funds to assist “MIHOW” – Maternal Infant Health Outreach Worker.” It is a parent-to-parent intervention designed to improve health and child development for areas with limited access to health care. Young community mothers were employed as the case workers. (See December, 2014 response for details.) Henderson Settlement is a National Mission Institution receiving money from United Methodist Women’s Mission Giving.

United Methodist Women ofMozambique and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) conducted a workshop on “the awareness and prevention of fistula.” Sixty (60) women attended. United Methodist Women’s Mission Giving also supported this effort.

Barbara E. Campbell, President.

Calendar for April

1 10:00 UMW @ B/H

2 7:00 Maundy Thursday Communion service

3 Good Friday Service @ St. m\Mary’s Episcopal Church n Charlotte St. at noon

“But just as you excel in everything..in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us…see that you also excel in this grace of giving.”

II Cor. 8:7

On March 17th, the consulting firm, PRC (Practical Resources for Churches ) conducted a Webinar entitled: “The Generosity Project: A Cross+Generational Approach to Stewardship” based on the following beliefs:

“1) All generations are to be equipped as stewards of God’s abundant grace.

2) Generosity is essential to the daily expression of one’s faith and best formed and practiced in households, with the support of the congregation.

3) When values and finances are discussed among people of all ages trust is built and faith nurtured.

4) The understanding of stewardship needs to be expanded.

5) AS Christians, our lives, our identity and daily decisions as consumers are shaped by God’s story in Jesus.

“Do you feel the grace of giving?” was the question asked by Cummings First UM Church in Cummings, Ga, in a recent stewardship campaign. They summarized their challenge thus:

“Once our hearts belong to the Lord, the giving of our money flows naturally. Through us, the Lord supplies the needs of our churches as they seek to spread his Word, and through us, those in need ae served….IN giving, God is the point of origin and destination, the beginning and the end, the Alpha and Omega.”

Many of you asked me how my trip was to Mozambique. Every time I said, “It was fantastic!” you would say, “I want to hear all about it!” I’m so glad that we have Dovetales, through which I can share it with all of you at once.

Starting from the basic logistics. I left on Sunday, Feb. 1 right after the worship service, and flew from Asheville to Charlotte, and then to Washington D.C., where I stayed overnight. It was quite cold there. When I left the hotel the next morning, I wore layers of clothes, knowing that I would have to shed layer after layer as I got closer to Africa. It worked out really well, and I did the exact reverse on my way home. During the 17-hour-flight in Ethiopian Airlines, I wore long, tight airplane stockings, which I had prepared this time, having experienced painfully swollen legs after a similarly long flight back from Hungary in Oct. 2013. Thanks to them, my legs were totally all right this time. Also, a few friends advised me to stand up and move around in the plane from time to time. That helped, too. The last flight from Ethiopia to Mozambique was five hours long. Different atmospheres at each airport were intriguing. Even though I saw people from all over the world wherever I went, the majority makeup of people at each airport changed as I moved on.

The hotel that the Standing Committee on Central Conference Matters stayed and had meetings at was called Hotel Africa Maputo Business in downtown Maputo, the capital city of Mozambique. The streets were not too impressive, but the hotel was wonderful. Especially the hotel room was beautiful, clean, neatly kept every day, with good A/C, and very convenient. The only thing we needed to be very careful about was tap water. It was good water, making our skin feel moisturized and smooth, but we were not supposed to drink it or even use it for rinsing after brushing teeth because of Malaria. The committee members were strongly advised to have Yellow Fever and other vaccines before travel and to take Malaria pills which I started taking a day before my departure and continued until a week after I returned home. At first, using bottled water for rinsing felt inconvenient, but soon I got used to it.

The main job of the Standing Committee in Mozambique was to finalize the draft of the Global Book of Discipline, before we present it for review to the 2016 General Conference delegates. The Feb. 19 article, “Plans Under Way to Make Discipline Truly Global” in United Methodist Insight, the online forum for the United Methodist Church,1 clearly delineates what the mandate for the committee was at this particular meeting. I quote Heather Hahn, “What are the essentials that bind all United Methodists and what can be adapted for use outside the United States? That is the heart of the debate before an international body of church leaders, who met this past week in Maputo, Mozambique.”

The 2012 General Conference assigned the Standing Committee to work on developing a truly global Book of Discipline, reflecting the worldwide nature of the United Methodist Church. That decision is written in the 2012 Book of Discipline p. 43, “Part II Global Book of Discipline.”2 On top of Parts I, III-V that are considered essential to the denomination, GC asked the committee to work on Part VI, Organization and Administration, that directly deals with organizing ministry in central conferences. We examined it and made specific suggestions except for chapters 5 and 7, which will be done in the next quadrennium and presented to the 2020 General Conference. Until then, its approval and adoption will not be proposed legislatively. The only thing the committee will ask the GC in Portland, Oregon in 2016 is whether they approve the direction in which the committee has been working. The frequently asked question whether its work has to do with changing the denomination’s stance on homosexuality will be answered no. It is beyond the scope of this committee’s work, and we do not change any content of the Book of Discipline.

Throughout the meeting, the most frequently used term by the committee members was “a paradigm shift.” It indicated the committee’s clear recognition that the United Methodist Church needs a paradigm shift from its self-understanding as a US-centric church, which made the UM churches outside the US some “additions,” to a truly worldwide church, celebrating the global nature of the UMC. Months, even years, before the meeting, Standing Committee members worked in three subgroups to reexamine our denomination’s law book to see which portions of it cannot be adapted and changed, and which portions can be adapted and changed according to different cultural/political/legal situations especially outside the US.

After a few days’ work alone, the Standing Committee was joined by the Connectional Table, for Sunday (Feb. 8)’s worship service at local churches and the cultural celebration, and for Monday’s joint meeting at Hotel Pestana Rovuma. Basically, the committee shared with the CT what we had decided on earlier. CT then stayed for their own meeting, and the Standing Committee members left the next day. Throughout the meetings, special guests including the General Conference Secretary, Chair of the Commission on the General Conference, General Secretary of the United Methodist Women, and General Secretary of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, were present. It was so delightful to see friends again and to deepen our friendships. The fact that we are doing something that is so timely for the denomination and that all of us are dedicated to its work, strengthened our mutual appreciation. I had the privilege to preach during morning devotion on Saturday, Feb. 7, and it was a special occasion for me to share my excitement in the committee’s joining in what God is doing in our church.

I took a lot of pictures, and they show how happy we all were in Mozambique. I will show you those pictures, if you want to see them. Food was mostly westernized, and was delicious at every meal time. Because the Indian Ocean was five minutes away from the hotel by car, which I could see only from a distance, there always was sea food. People there were very kind and spoke Portuguese, because Mozambique was occupied by Portugal from 1498 until it gained its independence in 1975. I learned to say, “Bom dia!” for “Good morning!” and “Obrigado” for “Thank you.” Because Mozambique was briefly a communist state (1975-1990), the street names near the hotel had all the world communist leaders’ names such as Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels, Vladimir Lenin, and Mao Tse-tung.

My trip back home – again in four different airplanes – was very pleasant and smooth. I landed at Asheville Airport on Wednesday, Feb. 11. I was very thankful when I found the church and the family all safe and sound. I am amazed at the exceptional opportunities that have been given to me to serve God’s church and our denomination on a global level. I accept them with humbled heart and try to do my best to do the task that is given to me. Thank you for praying for my trip and for supporting me in these special ministry opportunities. Thank you.

In-Yong

Annual Report of the Permanent Endowment 2014

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church has two endowment funds which are each divided into a principal and an income account. The principal is used to generate income and may not be spent. The income is available to be used within the spending limit policy. The General Endowment Fund has a balance of $ 56,224 as of December 31, 2014 ; of this amount, $ 40,359 is the principal balance and $ 15,865 is the income balance. The Sonja Raynette Whitt Endowment Fund has a balance of $ 9,923 as of December 31, 2014; of this amount. $ 6,849 is the principal balance and $ 3,074 is the income balance.

The assets of the funds are kept by The United Methodist Foundation of Western North Carolina, Inc. They provide a monthly financial report of all activity in the funds. These reports do not separate the principal and income. The Permanent Endowment Committee makes this separation. The principal comprises all contributions. The income is comprised of the dividends and interest, trustee fees, distributions and changes in market values. The United Methodist Foundation of Western North Carolina reported the total return for their Diversified Fund (of which we are a member) was 8.32% for the year.

The income of The General Endowment Fund is unrestricted except that its use is discouraged for use on budget items regularly provided for by the operating budget. The income of The Sonja Raynette Whitt Endowment Fund is designated for the Cartright Class as long as the need exists.

One of the responsibilities of The Permanent Endowment Committee is the dissemination of the financial information and the education of the church members. To this end, several articles have been published periodically in our newsletter relative to the Endowment, both to educate and to encourage contributions to the Endowment . During the year, The General Endowment Fund had $ 150 in contributions and The Sonja Raynette Whitt Endowment Fund had no contributions. Other than the trustees fees, one other distribution was made during the year–$1,800 for the Church Web page Project. Also $ 2,000 has been approved for the Multi-Ethnic Congregation Project. This has not yet been paid by The Endowment, pending the meeting of certain requirements.

Anyone wishing a copy of the financial statements may e-mail me at billnpat28@aol.com.

Respectfully submitted,

William H. Pott, Secretary

Upcoming Birthdays

March

3

Lula Myres

March

9

Lucy Smith

March

12

Patricia Murphy

March

13

Adam Sullivan DeGroot

March

15

Graylyn Loomis

March

17

Sandra Crouch

March

17

Evan Penland

March

17

Michael Doucette

March

18

Matthew Noelke

March

23

Eva Hook

March

24

Dana Tyson

March

25

Epifanio Sanchez

March

29

John Thompson

March

30

Maurice Bates

March

31

Cynthia Beard

April

3

James Shannon Roof

April

3

James Shawn Roof

None in March

Counters for March

March 1 Betty Letzig/Barbara Campbell

March 8 Bill and Patsy Pott

March 15 Jeannette Byrd/Bobbye Henry

March 22 Sandra Crouch/Holly Elledge

March 29 Bill and Patsy Pott

Wish List for Claxton School

Throughout this school year, volunteers from St. Paul’s, along with other churches in the “Loving Neighbors” group, have been reading to kindergarteners and first graders at Claxton to help them with “reading comprehension.” Recently. Librarian Jamie Allbach gave us a wish list of books for the library. If you would like to purchase a book, bring it to the church and we will make sure to gets to Claxton. See Jeannette Byrd for more information.

Dork Diaries series Diary of a Wimpy Kid series Liberty Porter series

39 Clues series Goosebumps series Stick dog series

Bone series by Jeff Smith

Magic School Bus series Any books by Mo Willems

March Calendar (Heart Month)

1 Chick’s w/a Mission after worship

3 8:30 Prayer; 5:30 Steadfast House “Our Circle” in Fellowship Hall

4 10:00UMW@B/H; 7:00 Choir

7 8:00 NA

8 Daylight Savings Time begins(set clock up one hour on Saturday March 7)

10 8:30 Prayer; 7:00 Boy Scouts

11 7:00 Choir

14 8:00 NA

15 Flame Builders Multi-Ethnic Celebration after worship@ B/H

16 1:30 Nance Circle@B/H

17 8:30 Prayer

18 7:00 Choir

19 6:30 Ad Council in Ballard Room

21 8:15 UMW Prayer Breakfast @ Mills River Church

22 1:00 Loving Neighbors in Fellowship Hall, last date to order Easter Lillies for Sanctuary

24 8:30 Prayer

25 7:00 Choir

28 8:00 NA

29 Cantata

31 8:30 Prayer

March 7

Some Church Humor

There is the story of a pastor who got up one Sunday and announced to his congregation: “I have good news and bad news. The good news is, we have enough money to pay for our new building program. The bad news is , it’s still in your pockets.”

A minister waited in line to have his car filled with gas just before a long holiday weekend. The attendant worked quickly but there were many cars ahead of him. Finally the attendant motioned him toward a vacant pump. “Reverend,” said the young man, “I’m so sorry about the delay. It seems as if everyone waits until the last minute to get ready for a long trip.” The minister chuckled, “I know what you mean. It’s the same in my business.

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN

“Call to Prayer and Self-Denial:

A Gesture of Gratitude”

March 4th – 10:a.m., Brooks-Howell

2nd Floor Lounge

Leader: Grace Estel

“Call to Prayer and Self-Denial” has a long history. The basic concepts of prayer and sacrificial giving have remained constant amid a century of organizational and cultural changes.

Today’s “Call to Prayer “ service with its special offering originated in women’s missionary societies of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South in the 1880’s. First offerings were for new buildings, “non-recurring items and not the budget” An exception in 1918 designated the offering for “Retirement and Relief for Workers.” Exceptions were made again in 1918, 1929, 1937 and 1939.

The original plan was a “Week of Prayer.” with a ‘day’ within the “Week” for “special supplication.” April 23rd was to be a day of fasting and prayer, “that the societies and all friends of the work may pray for blessings on our meetings and for the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit in the councils” – a time of meditation, intercession and sacrificial giving.

In 1909 the woman’s missionary societies instituted a pension plan for their workers. Each local member was asked to contribute 35 cents per year for pensions. Early payments to workers varied, but much later new policies set the rate at “$300 per year for the first 10 years of service, and $15 for each additional year of service.” A growing personnel force could not be sustained by individual giving; so in 1918 the Week of Prayer offering was for mission personnel benefits, not building construction.

As the three denominations came together in 1940, and as the United Methodist Church was created in 1968, many policies, procedures and plans had to be coordinated. With hundreds of workers and increasing costs of living, the Call to Prayer offering has been designated for “retiree benefits” once every four years ever since.

Members of St. Paul’s unit who served under appointment of the Women’s Division are recipients of these funds.

Barbara E. Campbell, President

MISSIONS/OUTREACH

Human Relations Day

“Thank you” to all who contributed to the January Human Relations Day offering. The total received was $292.50. This was the first of the Six Special Sundays with Offerings.

UMCOR: 1940-2015

“75 Years of Being with Those in Times of Crisis”

This is the theme of the New WorldOutlook (magazine) January/February issue with 39-pages of UMCOR’s history, presented by decades, with narrative, diagrams and extensive photography and a look to the future.

UMCOR was created by the 1940 General Conference in response to a request presented by Retired Bishop Herbert Welch on behalf of the Committee on China Relief which he chaired. He served as the first director of UMCOR for eight years.

Bishop Welch said of the new Committee, “Our motto is “giving by Christians for the needy, without distinction for race, creed or color. We bear witness to Christ by serving all in the name of Christ.”

The administrative costs of UMCOR are covered through the “One Great Hour of Sharing” annual offering. This enables UNCOR to allocate 100%of money raised for disaster response or development work to go directly t the projects designated by the donors.

One Great Hour of Sharing

March 15, 2015

Offering envelopes will be in the church bulletin. A Mission Minute will highlight both the offering and anniversary. The 2014 offering was $748.50.

Easter/Lenten Offering

Work of Fran Lynch, Willow, AK

Covenant Missionary

Fran Lynch, St. Paul’s Covenant Missionary, is a deaconess Church and Community Worker appointed to the Willow (UMC) Church and Community Ministry in the small town of Willow, Alaska. She oversees and coordinates a comprehensive program including a food pantry, cloths closet, fire-wood distribution, transportation and a book mobile.

Our Covenant offering seeks $1410.

Please give generously when the Lenten/Easter offering envelopes are in the church bulletin.

Things are moving greatly at church, and one of the things that I want to share with you in this article is the last Spanish-Speaking Small Group gathering on Tuesday, Jan. 13 at Brooks-Howell Home Activities Building. Honestly, the group members were somewhat anxious after Clarissa and her family’s departure, because they had been very important part of the group. We were not sure whether we would have enough number of people. But, thank God, 14 people showed up and we had such a wonderful time, eating (Sarah Bowden ordered delicious Latin American food), singing, dancing, and laughing together!

I would love to introduce to you those who were there and tell you where they are originally from: Epifanio Sanchez, Marselino Plasencia, Estela Beltran (Mexico), Monica Murillo, Marilé Mura (Argentina), Sarah Frances Bowden, Rev. David Ortigoza (Brazil), Anita Torres, Ismael Rodriguez, Tiffany Rivera, Angel Vásquez Muños, Angelanys Vásquez (Puerto Rico), Crystal Murlless (Monica’s daughter who was born in the USA), and myself!

You know Epifanio (he sings beautifully!), Monica (our Spanish translator) and her daughter Crystal. Anita and her family have been at St. Paul’s several times, including on Sunday, July 20, 2014 when we had the Hispanic Cultural Celebration and on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2015 when we had a farewell party for the Fuentes. Anita (as you already know, she is a wonderful cook!) and Ismael are married. Tiffany is Anita’s daughter, married to Angel, and Angelanys is their daughter. That family learns English in the Ballard Room every Monday at 1:00-3:00 pm by an instructor from Asheville Literacy Council. Another English/Citizenship class offered by the council meets every Tuesday at 6:00-8:00 pm in Peace Class.

David Ortigoza and Sarah Bowden knew each other in Brazil, because Sarah (who was born in Brazil as a daughter of missionaries) taught him Bible when he was a teenager. Marilé Mura is a physician in Argentina. She was born in Italy, grew up in Brazil, went to school with David, and then moved to Argentina. Later in life, they met again and fell in love with each other (or found out that they had already been in love since their childhood) and will get married in May. Marilé and Monica struck up a conversation right away, because they were both from Argentina and because Monica’s mother used to be a physician in Argentina, too!

Marselino and Estela are husband and wife. They both work at Brooks-Howell Home, and were invited by Sarah Bowden. Marselino came to St. Paul’s when we had the Hispanic Cultural Celebration. Every other weekend, they work. We invited them to church, whenever they don’t work. These are all very good people. Thanks to David, who is an excellent song leader, we sang loudly to his guitar. He also led us to sing and dance, and it was so fun! The group decided to take part in our March 15 worship service, which 25 young adults from across the conference (“FlameBuilders”) will attend together with 2-3 District Superintendents. It will be a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural worship service, and the highlights of our cultural celebrations last year will be incorporated in it.

The group got so excited that spontaneously we made a plan to gather in February to have a Valentine’s party. It will be on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at 5:30pm at Anita’s home (327-A Livingston St. Asheville, NC 28801). We will bring a small gift to exchange with one another. Everybody is welcome! If you would like to come, please let me know. We will have a fun time of beautiful fellowship! —-In-Yong

Letter from Clarissa

Hello St. Paul’s Family,

Thank you for the fond farewell you sent us off with earlier this month. We arrived in Panajachel, Guatemala on Saturday, January 10. Adrian has just finished his first week of first grade at LIFE School and I completed my first week at Salud y Paz which included a trip back to the capital to pick up six months of medicine that was ordered in October, meetings with bank managers, the architect, accountant, fellow missionaries, and a short time at the clinic. There is so much to learn! Andres has found a basketball team to play with but acknowledges that it is much harder to play at 5240′ rather than 1900.’ Daily activities are a bit more primitive here so take more time. Andres has tried to keep up with hand washing our laundry and other chores around the house. We have a tiny little refrigerator so have to make almost daily trips to the market which is fun but far away.

We moved into a little rustic apartment in a community of apartments and stand alone efficiencies. It is behind a big wrought iron gate with a rock courtyard between all the residences. Adrian has made good friends with the neighbors and they play Star Wars and zombies in the courtyard all afternoon. It is a 30 minute walk to school in the morning but as we walk we have an awe-inspiring view of three volcanoes, San Pedro, Toliman and Atitlan. A few of the students come from the other side of the lake and wear their life jackets into school which for some reason always makes me chuckle.

We have new phone numbers: 011-502-3048-93-87 is Andres’ and 011-502-5783-6306 is Clarissa. The best email address for me is clarissa@saludypaz.org. We’re happy to update you on work and life any time so just let us know when you have an open space in Dovetails. We love you each and every one and covet your prayers for us and for the ministry of Salud y Paz.

Andres, Clarissa and Adrian Fuentes

MISSIONS/OUTREACH

Looking Back on 2014

Members of St. Paul’s repeatedly refer to our reputation as a “mission minded church.” That fact was reflected in several ways during 2014.

Six Special Sunday with Offering

The suggested amount for each observance is $1 per member. Our contributions were:

* Human Relations Day, $329

* Native American Day, $260.50

* One Great Hour of Sharing, $748.50

* Peace with Justice, $216.50

* World Communion, $353

* Student Sunday, $289.50

Advent/Christmas Offering

“Missionaries around the World” was the theme of the 2014 Advent/Christmas offering. The amount received was $684, slightly more than the amount in 2013 for the same purpose: supplementing the expenses of maintaining over 300 missionaries in various parts of the world.

Covenant Missionary Relationship

Fran Lynch is the deaconess Church and Community Worker is the “Covenant Missionary” in Willow, Alaska with whom we are in partnership. The Covenant agreement of $1410 was paid in full. Fran sends monthly letters detailing her work which are posted on the Missions Bulletin Board near the pastor’s study.

ABCCM

Non=perishable food items – cereals, pasta, peanut butter, jelly, canned meats – are collected weekly, and delivered when the box in the Narthex is full (usually monthly.) Sixty-four bags, some big, some small, were delivered during 2014. The local needs are increasing.

Activities: Individual & Congregational

* Supplies, meals and snacks were provided for Claxton School.

* Super Bowl Sunday was promoted by the youth group.

* Soup/education labels were collected and sent to Red Bird Mission.

* CROP Walk was promoted by the youth.

* Members volunteered with the Haywood St. Congregation.

UMCOR Emergency Appeals

Members have given generously to funds for international emergencies and domestic disasters

* International Emergencies, $1225

* Domestic Disasters, $2325

* UMCOR undesignated, $55; Ebola, $380

* UMCOR Syrian Christians, $100

* Philippines, $20; Outside Ministry, $20

Special Projects

* Habitat for Humanity, $195

* Disciple Prison Ministry, $2 at St. Paul’s

* Givens Estate, $21.50, at St. Paul’s

These latter ministries provide their own envelopes and ask that funds be sent direct; so the church has no record of gifts.

APPORTIONMENTS PAID IN FULL!

A fact to be celebrated as giving has faltered in other churches.

Barbara E. Campbell, Chairperson

Counters for February

Feb. 1 Bill and Patsy Pott

Feb. 8 Bill and Patsy Pott

Feb. 15 Jeannette Byrd/Bobbye Henry

Feb. 22 Sanda Crouch/Holly AElledge

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN

Next Meeting: Feb 4th

Brooks-Howell Home

2nd Floor Lounge, 10:00 a.m.

“Black Women’s History in

United Methodist Women”

How is it With Your Soul?”

Each year, for most of a century, the programs of United Methodist Women has included a “spiritual growth” (mission) study. Some years the topic was a particular book of the Bible. Other years it was a current social justice issue studied through the lens of the Bible. In 2012 the topic was “Immigration in the Bible” For 2015, the textbook reflects John Wesley’s concern, and is entitled, “How Is It with Your Soul?”

The study seeks to help us balance the inner and outer dimensions of Christian life. It is organized around four verbs: pray, learn, mentor and transform. It challenges each student to become a more vibrant disciple of Christ.

Fasting as a Lenten Discipline

Lent begins on February 18th. Fasting as not been a traditional Protestant Lenten discipline. At times it has been treated lightly- we’ll “give up chocolate” or “give up going to the movies” when neither was part of our usual routine. However, value in fasting may be found in the following “Lenten Reflections:”

Fast from judging others; feast on the presence of God within each person. Fast from focusing on differences; feast on the unity of all life.

Fast from the apparent darkness and gloom; feast on the reality of light and enthusiasm.

Fast from thoughts of illness; feast on the healing power of God.

Fast from Discontent; feast on gratitude.

Fast from anger; feast on patience.

Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism.

Fast from complaining; feast on appreciation.

Fast from negatives; feast on affirmatives.

Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness.

Fast from self-concern; feast on the compassion of others.

Fast from discouragement; feast on hope.

Fast from facts that depress; feast on promises that inspire.

Fast from idle gossip; feast on purposeful silence.

Fast from shadows of sorrow; feast on the brilliance of the Resurrection!

-Author Unknown

Barbara E. Campbell, President

Letter From Shirley DeGroot

Upcoming Birthdays

February

1 Gretchen Harnden

2 Tony Skipper

2 Fran Lynch

Birthdays (Con’t)

3 Ann Janzen

8 Krista Crouch

9 Justin Meyer

11 Ruth Clark

12 Martha Israel

18 Betty Letzig

19 Anthony Elledge

28 Bill Pott

March

3 Lula Myres

9 Lucy Smith

Anniversaries

Feb. 2 Robert and Ellen Cashion Jr.

Church Calendar

February

1 Pastor Lee will be in Maputo, Mozambique, Africa FEB. 1-11

1 Chicks with a Mission following worship, celebrating Black History Month in February

Happy New Year, my friends! I am so thankful to God for a beautiful church family at St. Paul’s. We pray for one another; visit each other at hospitals and nursing homes; agonize when one of us suffers; rejoice when one of us has things to celebrate; bring things to make Claxton’s Christmas Party successful; share dishes when we have fellowship meals together (we have so many outstanding cooks!); hug and kiss each other in friendship. Especially during worship services, I feel that all of us heave and breathe together with laughter, sigh, attentiveness, gasping, and occasional tears. We are with one heart and mind in our Lord, Jesus Christ.

With different backgrounds, skills, experiences, expertise, and personalities, we weave this wonderful tapestry of life of the church. Our predecessors wove a beautiful one and we continue it with new design and colors. We will then hand it to our successors, so that using their own fresh ideas and expressions of faithfulness, they will add their own colorful threads to it. What a wonderful thing it is to continue the life of a church but with unique perspectives and tints in each generation! What makes it a continuing whole is one body, one Spirit, one hope of our calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all (Ephesians 4:4-6).

Together with you, I dream of beautiful days in 2015. In 1 Thessalonians 5:24, the Apostle Paul says, “The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.” The one who has called us to be members of St. Paul’s is faithful, and he will guide us throughout our church life in the new year. Whether we go through phases of uncertainty and doubt, or through those of vigor and hopefulness, our Lord will be with us. Let us sharpen our spiritual awareness through regular, constant prayers, so that we may discern God’s will clearly and follow the Holy Spirit’s guidance with renewed strength. At the end of the day, the one who will be glorified through all our endeavors is the God of Jesus Christ. May the name of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit be praised in all our efforts and lives!

In-Yong

Missions/Outreach

Student Day Offering

United Methodist Student Day was observed November 30th, the 6th Special Sunday with Offering of 2014. Many thanks to all who contributed. The total received was $291.95. These funds support scholarships for United Methodist students.

#GivingTuesday

This special giving opportunity on December 2nd invited United Methodists to turn away from Black Friday/Cyber Monday shopping sprees and support United Methodist mission projects and personnel through the Advance. The General Board of Global Ministries offered $1M in matching funds.

A total exceeding $2.5M was received, designated for over 770 persons or projects in 25 countries. This is less than the amount received in 2013, but still an impressive extra contribution so needed at year-end.

The Ebola Crisis

The crisis continues to make world headlines with over 6000 persons reported killed by the virus in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea.

Dr. Martin Salia, whose death in the U.S. was widely reported, was the surgeon at the United Methodist Kissy Hospital in Sierra Leone.

UMCOR is supporting the (World) YWCA in seeking to prevent the further spread of the disease; and to re-integrate survivors – mainly young women and girls who have been infected or affected by Ebola – into communities. Survivors receive humanitarian support, including food and home-based care, along with education about the virus to help reduce stigma.

UMCOR funds also support the distribution of relief packages, consisting of food supplies and hygiene kits, which will serve the families for one full month. Gifts for Ebola ministries can be designated for Advance #982450.

Human Relations Day

January 18th, 2015

This celebration is set in Epiphany the season of manifesting God’s light in the world. The offering supports three ministries administered by the General Boards of Global Ministries and Church and Society:

Community Developers Program (57%- GBGM)

United Methodist Voluntary Services, (33%- GBGM)

Youth Offenders Rehabilitation Program (10%- GBCS)

Barbara E. Campbell, Chairperson

Counters for January

4 Barbara Campbell and Betty Letzig

11 Jeannette Byrd and Bobbye Henry

18 Bill and Patsy Pott

25 Sandra Crouch and Holly Elledge

Counters for February

1 Barbara Campbell and Betty Letzig

8 Bill and Patsy Pott

15 Jeannette Byrd and Bobbye Henry

22 Sandra Crouch and Holly Elledge

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN

2014 Mission Recognition Awardees: Grace Estel & Jean Morgan

At the December 3rd meeting, the annual Special Mission Recognition certificates and pins were presented to Grace Estel and Jean Morgan. The award honor persons whose faithful leadership and participation exemplify the Purpose of United Methodist Women.

Both Grace and Jean are long time members of the organization, and have held several elected offices.

Each was commissioned a deaconesses in 1956; and worked in Woman’s Division projects during her years of employment.

2014 Year-end Reports

The Unit had a “good year” in relation to meeting attendance (local and connectional), assembling of Kits, and financial contributions. A summary report will be available mid-month.

Looking Ahead

150th anniversary: 1869-2019

The January issue of response magazine “kicks off” a five-year era of education, reflection, celebration of the accomplishments and challenges faced (and still facing) women and children. Many programs and activities will be projected by the National Office and the WNC Conference Committee. Included is The Legacy Fund which has received a substantial contribution from Brooks-Howell residents appointed by the Woman’s Division. Details to come!

The Church and People withDisabilities:” January Study

The mission study “The Church and People with Disabilities” will be introduced at the January 7th meeting at Brooks-Howell Home. Betty J. Letzig will coordinate the discussion.

The purpose of this study is “to build awareness in the church regarding issues around disability, to call the church to provide full accessibility to services and opportunities, and to promote advocacy for justice for people with disabilities.”

The New Year is here and it’s time for making resolutions!! An important one for all of us seeking to be good stewards of God’s gifts to us is to: Update our Estate Plans- or, if you don’t have one, creating one!! Don’t let either option be one of those on the “To Do” list that never gets done!!

Among the reasons that people use for not making or updating their Estate Plans are:

I don’t have children: If that applies to you, you still need a plan but with a different focus. Are there other members of your family/friends that may need additional resources for their special needs? If not,

then you have a wonderful opportunity to remember St. Paul’s and other favorite charities.

Designating individuals to make health and financial decisions for you in case you are no longer able to do so is also important as part of your Estate Planning.

It’s Too Expensive: Planning ahead before you see an attorney helps to keep legal fees to a minimum.

Many assets do not require the services of an attorney- those passed to others through your Will, and those transferred as beneficiary designations from retirement accounts, life insurance policies, bank and brokerage accounts. (Keeping these forms up-to-date is very important, but there are no costs involved.)

I Don’t Have an “Estate”: Everyone has an “estate” even if very modest. And every person over 18 should have a Plan. (If there is an accident there may be insurance that would become a part of the “estate”.)

4. I Don’t Want to Think About Dying: As stated in my July article in Dovetales 14% of the 64% of people who do not have a Will use this as an excuse. But if you don’t have a Plan, the State does have one for you and it probably is not what you would have preferred. Your resources may go to some family member that you would not have wanted to receive them, and a greater share will go to state and federal fees through probate and/or taxes. Nothing would go to any charitable organization including your church.

Estate planning and keeping plans already made up-to-date enables you to be in control of the disposition of your estate. Make it one of your resolutions to be the best possible steward of the resources God has provided you.

‘And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work.” 2 Cor:9.8

What a wonderful month we had in November with the Asian Cultural Celebration and Pancake Day! Now we are ready to have simultaneous translation devices installed in the sanctuary, including two translator booths. Translation service will start some time in December. This is the third and last of the series of articles that explains all the activities that are going on at St. Paul’s. In the October issue, we talked about Multi-ethnic efforts; in November, about “Loving Neighbors”; and now, we will talk about our conversation with Central UMC. You have heard bits and pieces here and there, and now you will be able to understand the whole. Looking back, I cannot help but be thankful for the progress we have made and for the wholesome direction in which it is going.

As soon as I graduated in May, 2012, I was finally ready to fully focus on ministry at St. Paul’s, to give extra attention to ways in which we could grow. What I found – alas! – was a grim outlook of decline in membership/giving. Of course, I had noticed it earlier and been concerned about it. But when I started tackling it, it was so daunting I didn’t know what to do. It was a very painful time. After quite a bit of struggles, I decided to resume the early morning prayers, which I had done in Korea, because the church is God’s and without God’s help and guidance, we cannot do much. Ever since, I have been praying at 5:30 am every weekday morning at church.

Another thing I did was to attend lots and lots of seminars and lectures that pertained to the churches’ current reality and their revitalization. Over and over again, I heard that mainline denominations in America have been all experiencing the similar decline for the past 60 or more years, now even Baptist churches, and that we are living in a period of great change whose magnitude is compared to that of Protestant Reformation in the 16th century in Christian history. At the most recent seminar, even the end year of each denomination was predicted. It has become clearer and clearer that what we are experiencing at St. Paul’s is simply a microcosm of a much bigger phenomenon.

Finance Committee has been instrumental to the development of the conversation. Early on in 2013, the committee met for a regular meeting and saw that St. Paul’s finance was seeing the same, if not worse, level of deficit that we had seen year after year. What was different that day is that the committee agreed that we couldn’t ask the congregation to give special offerings for the capital campaign again, because it felt like squeezing our beloved people who were doing their best already. Instead, we decided to be bold in acknowledging the reality and in looking for more fundamental solutions. We made the decision to look at all the options for the use of church buildings and for the clergy configuration, because after years of trimming the budget down all that was left for consideration were maintenance of the buildings and of the personnel.

Through many, oftentimes tumultuous and heated discussions, in the Finance Committee, Finance/Trustees joint meetings, and the Ad Council meetings, with the constant guidance of our DS, throughout 2013 and the earlier part of 2014, we got total 8 options to consider, that were included in the report that you received at the congregational meeting on April 6, 2014. As was presented in the same report, after thoroughly studying pros and cons of each option, the Ad Council chose the combination of #1 and #2, which you see below:

Merge or form a dynamic partnership with Central UMC

City churches’ cooperative fellowship among Central, St. Paul’s, Haywood Street, and Berry Temple

After the Church Conference on June 1 in which the professing members who were present approved the idea of pursuing cooperative ministries with Central with the intent of creating a dynamic partnership with them through a vote (43 yeses, 12 nos, and 1 abstention), St. Paul’s/Central Task Force’s work gained real strength. The two churches had been already in dialogues – “testing the waters” – with our Ad Council’s help, because it took both churches’ efforts, not just St. Paul’s. The original members on the Task Force on St. Paul’s side were the pastor, Bettie Sue Smith, Bill Pott, Jeannette Byrd, Teresa Stephens, and Leo Smith. After Bettie Sue died, Barbara Morton replaced her.

The Task Force’s work has continued with renewed power especially with the help of new CVSs (Church Vitality Strategists of the conference). At the September 28 meeting at Central, we adopted the call to action of “creating a dynamic partnership with shared pastorate and with a new vision” through unanimous consensus. Also, we agreed to form a Design Team from both churches to design the new strategic partnership. According to the desired characteristics of potential Design Team members that were defined in that meeting, St. Paul’s Task Force members named a few individuals. Thankfully, Andrew Crosson and Beth Hook agreed to replace Bill Pott and Barbara Morton, which was reported to the Ad Council on October 28.

At the first Design Team meeting which was on Sunday, November 9 at Central, we created four subgroups that will study demographics of this area, potential ministry opportunities by walking through the neighborhoods, financial/trustees implications, and potential model for shared pastorate. Especially with our Finance Committee’s recent recognition of dire difficulties in approving deficit budget for another year, which precipitated the “Stewardship Report” series on Sunday mornings with the 13th month giving requests for the end of 2014, the findings of the Design Team are believed to have a great potential to benefit St. Paul’s, hopefully as early as the beginning of the next appointment year. And the shared pastorate might include not only St. Paul’s and Central, but a few other church/ministries.

Considering the reality that church-member participation and forms of worship are changing and the denominational loyalty is being eroded and replaced by other religious expressions, our partnership with Central and others will not only give us a brighter and new future but also will serve as a good model that other churches may use. We have come a long way overcoming uncertainty, doubt, and fear, and are beginning to see a bright light ahead of us. I ask you to pray for this endeavor, because the two congregations (and others) will eventually make decisions. All together, may we move forward with courage and hope toward the day of a better, more effective mission in North Asheville!

In-Yong

United Methodist Women

Looking Back a Bit!

October 18th was UBUNTU DAY for United Methodist Women of the WNC Conference who spent a “day of service” at the two Bethlehem Centers, Bennett College, Pfeiffer University and Brooks-Howell Home. Tasks were determined by each locale. Forty-five persons (45) worked at Brooks-Howell to wash windows, work in the archives, do chores for residents and clean and resurface the meditation walks in the woods. Two (2) members of St. Paul’s Unit participated.

The annual Pledge Service was the feature of the October 1st meeting using the theme, “Living Our Calling.” Pledges of $8221 were received which are the basis for building the 2015 budget.

The World Thank Offering was celebrated at the November 5th meeting under the theme, “Thanks Be to God for his Gift beyond Words.” Gifts from this service of thanksgiving totaled: $2325.86

As a follow-up of the September program, it was voted to send $1000 ($250 each) to the four (4)National Mission Institutions (Community Centers) working with immigrant women and children on the US/Mexican border. We were also able to restore cuts to the 2014 budget that were made before all pledges were received.

World Community Day, a Church Women United observance, was celebrated November 15th at Brooks-Howell Home. Several members of St. Paul’s Unit were program participants.

Looking Ahead

Christmas is the focus of the December 3rd meeting. An extra feature will be naming the 2014 Mission Recognition recipients.

During 2015 plans for the 150th anniversary celebration of UnitedMethodist Women (2015) will get underway. The first Program Book topic for local Units is entitled “Acting for Racial Justice.” Information about the celebration has been in response magazine including April which highlighted the “challenge gift” made by Brooks-Howell residents to the Legacy Fund.

The United Methodist Church has an international missionary force of over 300 persons serving in countries of Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. They serve in a variety of capacities, and in some of the world’s danger spots: in the war-torn Ukraine were the minority Protestant community faces severe judgment as a religious minority. Missionaries were in Liberia and Sierra Leone long before the resent Ebola crisis, but all efforts are jeopardized as the epidemic spreads.

A recent Global Ministries letter indicates “In parts of Central Asia where Christianity is not a recognized religion, missionaries and churches must go underground to create new worship spaces, taking care not to be discovered.”

The General Board of Global Ministries can cover just 72% of the costs to fund missionaries through apportionment (World Service) giving alone. The gap of 28% must come through second mile giving such as Covenant Relationships, individual gifts and special offerings.

Our Advent Offering for “Missionaries around the World” will be received throughout December. Use the special Advent envelopes or the regular pew envelopes. Make checks to St. Paul’s and mark for Advent. Please give generously!

Apportionments — also called “Sharing beyond the Local Church” are our share (our portion) of the world-wide ministries of the United Methodist Church. This includes Annual Conference and District ministries. The amount is annually assigned by the Annual Conference. This year our amount is: $14,919 and it has been paid in full!

Additionally, individual members have contributed $6500.05 (through October 19th) for special programs such as UMCOR National Disasters and International Emergencies, the Six Special Sundays with offerings and support of our Covenant Missionary, Fran Lynch ($1335.05). Several contributions were also made to Habitat.

All gifts are received with appreciation!

Barbara E. Campbell, Chairperson

PERMANENT ENDOWMENT FUND COMMITTEE

If your mailbox is like mine, each day it is stuffed with “Year End Appeals” – a good reminder that as Christians we have an especially compelling reason to analyze each request. Is it one that many people will give to? Or one that has a more targeted audience, i.e. one that carries out the mission of The United Methodist Church? And, as we determine how much to give do we consider “What is God’s share?”

John Wesley’s admonition was:

“Give all you can. After providing what you truly need for your family, give all you have to God. Render unto God not a tenth, not a third, but all that is God’s, be it more or less.”

Amidst the many appeals I have received are the following two quotes:

– “A gift to us (St. Paul’s) at this time of year not only demonstrates your belief in our mission, but also reinforces your commitment to making a difference in the world.

– “Touch the lives of others today by giving back a portion of the rewards you’ve received.” Source: The Shelter Company

Betty J. Letzig, Chair

Have you remembered St. Paul’s in your estate planning?

Finance Committee

Report to St. Paul’s Congregation

November 9, 2014

Since I was a child, I have always thought of November as “Thank You” month, probably due to teachings from my mother. We at St. Paul’s have so much for which to be thankful. Included are wonderful memories of our heritage of ministry going back 127 years; faithful members, now and in the past, many who go or have gone way beyond their call of duty; a beautiful building in which to hold services; a great minister; an accomplished choir director; dedicated Sunday School teachers; and a warm feeling of fellowship extended to all who enter.

Currently God continues to bless us with our special Cartwright class, also with our renowned pre-school, which not only teaches children at an early age about colors and their ABCs, but also that God loves and cares for them. We are thankful that we are able to help support the ministry of Fran Lynch, a missionary serving in Willow, Alaska and have other opportunities to give for missions near and far..

We thank God for our new ministry to become a multi-ethnic/multi-cultural church.. We celebrate that we are no longer a homogenous church, but have members and attendees who are African American, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, Caucasian, and many of us who are ourselves multi-ethnic

We also celebrate our ministry with other congregations through “Loving Neighbors.” At present, 24 young students at Claxton are receiving tutoring in reading from members of the four congregations: St. Paul’s, St. Mark’s Lutheran , St. Mary’s Episcopal, and St. Eugene’s Roman Catholic. We look forward to worshipping with members of these congregations during Advent.

I am sure that you can name many more reasons for us to be thankful.

But we must also be thankful for our challenges. Without them, there would be no growth in our lives and in the life of the church. If all was well, we might have the tendency to become complacent and not try to do new and exciting things for God and his kingdom.

Speaking of challenges, we have a recurring one before us. In addition to “Thank You” month, November is also the time when the finance committee reviews our giving and expenditures for the year and prepares a budget for the following year.

Our treasurer, has compiled a synopsis of giving for the past few years showing that while the number of members or units making pledges has declined (from 52 for $141,912 in 2011 to 38 in 2014 for $120,444), our expenditures have increased each year. The projection for 2015 giving is even less. As an example of increasing expenditures, almost $35,000 has been spent through September, just for insurance and utilities on this older building.

Quoting our treasurer, “As of the end of September, 2014, we have a $15,362 deficit which means that we have used that much of specifically designated giving to pay for budget items. While this is not right, it was this or not pay the bills.”

“We budgeted a loss of $25,000 (2014) which appears to be right on target since we had a surplus of $10,000 to start the year.” (end of quote)

Many of you will want to know that our apportionment for 2014 has been paid in full.

Although the budget process has not been completed, we anticipate another deficit in 2015.

Here is our challenge. The finance committee is asking that we, members of the congregation, firstly, make sure our pledge is up to date, and secondly, consider making a 13th month donation of our pledge for the year. Or, if unable to do this, we consider an individual Christmas gift to the church in appreciation for all that God has given us. On behalf of members of the finance committee, thank you for anything that you can do.

We look forward to the future with hope. A task force is working on ways for St. Paul’s to grow in our ministry. You will be hearing more about this in the months to come. I for one, continue to feel that God is not through with St. Paul’s and that great things are about to happen.

Prayer:

Thank you God for all the blessings you bestow on us and on this church. Thank you for challenges. We know that you love us and want us to continue to do our best for your kingdom. Give us hope for the future and a will to follow your guidance in our lives.